NASA launches space themed D&D-like tabletop RPG scenario 

The US space agency NASA unexpectedly released a fantasy TRPG scenario on March 5. The Lost Universe combines D&D style world-building with a detailed scenario about the Hubble Telescope being stolen by a villain from a rogue planet. The scenario and map can be downloaded from NASA’s site for free, and is apparently adaptable to your preferred tabletop role-playing game system. 

For the uninitiated, Tabletop RPGs (TTRPG or TRPG for short) are pen-and-paper games that are played through conversations between the Gamemaster (GM) and players. The games follow rulebooks and use dice rolls to determine the outcome of actions. Well-known TRPG systems include Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) and Call of Cthulhu (CoC). 

NASA’s TRPG scenario takes place on a fictional planet called Exlaris, where the inhabitants can use magic by using the energy of the vacuum. Like Earth, Exlaris used to exist in its star’s habitable zone, and the intelligent beings who evolved on the planet eventually formed a peaceful society that pursued knowledge and magic.    

However, Exlaris was off its orbit by a black hole, becoming a rogue planet. In a struggle to survive the planet’s wizards and scholars banded together to try to recreate the planet’s former environment using their technology and vacuum energy to form a shield. However, Exlaris still seems to be in a perilous state. The scenario kicks off when one of the wizards develops a spell that connects Exlaris to Earth. A dragon steals the spell and uses it to summon the Hubble Telescope to Exlaris. 

As players, you will take on the role of Earthlings lost in Exlaris. You will be able to teleport between vibrant cities on Exlaris and must work together with your fellow players to try to save the Hubble Telescope. According to NASA’s introduction for the game, players will take on a classic villain, and despite the fantasy setting, will also learn and use real life scientific knowledge to progress through the game. The 44-page scenario for The Lost Universe describes the game’s NPCs but does not give specific ability values. Apparently, this scenario can be played by 4 to 7 players using any TRPG system of your choice, giving the GM and players the freedom to take on The Lost Universe with their own preferred rules.  

The materials for TRPG scenario also contain scientific information about the Hubble Telescope and the actual universe. This includes explanations of space-related terms such as gravitational lensing and redshift, with accompanying illustrations and photographs. Space-related knowledge may become vital for progressing in your adventure.

Materials for playing The Lost Universe can be downloaded from NASA. 

Written by. Verity Townsend based on the original Japanese article (original article’s publication date: 2024-03-05 15:11 JST)